Divine Mercy Sunday (Second Sunday of Easter)

Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated on the Second Sunday of Easter, as established by St. John Paul II in the year 2000, when he canonized St. Faustina Kowalska, the Polish nun who received visions of Jesus and His message of Divine Mercy.

This feast is a special invitation to trust in God’s mercy, seek reconciliation, and extend mercy to others. Jesus Himself requested this feast through St. Faustina, promising extraordinary graces to those who approach Him with faith and repentance.

Themes of Divine Mercy Sunday:

• God’s Infinite Mercy: No sin is too great for His forgiveness.

• Trust in Jesus: As He said to St. Faustina, “Jesus, I trust in You.”

• Works of Mercy: We are called to show mercy to others in our words and actions.

Key Moments of the Celebration:

1. The Divine Mercy Image & Chaplet

   • Churches often display the Divine Mercy image, as revealed to St. Faustina, with the words:
     “Jesus, I trust in You.”

   • The Divine Mercy Chaplet is prayed, a powerful devotion asking for God’s mercy.

2. Confession & Plenary Indulgence

   • Jesus promised that those who go to Confession and receive Holy Communion on this day will receive complete forgiveness of sins and punishment (a plenary indulgence, under the usual conditions).

3. The Gospel of Mercy

   • The Gospel reading (John 20:19-31) recounts Jesus appearing to the disciples, offering them peace and instituting the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession).

4. Works of Mercy

   • Catholics are encouraged to practice spiritual and corporal works of mercy, such as helping the poor, comforting the sorrowful, and forgiving those who have wronged us.

A Call to Reflection:

• Do I truly trust in God’s mercy?

• Have I sought reconciliation and forgiveness in my life?

• How can I extend mercy to those around me?

On this special day, let us embrace the boundless love of God and share His mercy with the world!

“Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet.” (Jesus to St. Faustina, Diary 699)

All are invited to join in this powerful celebration of God’s mercy!